Andrzej Duda and Volodymyr Zelenskyy.Photo: Gazeta Wyborcza.
Poland has long been one of Ukraine’s largest partners in the war with Russia. Its contributions range from military support to humanitarian aid, making Poland an indispensable ally for Ukraine, TimeUkraineIsrael reports, citing the website of the Polish president.
Military aid: tanks, aircraft and training
Poland was the first country to supply Ukraine with heavy weapons. It initiated the creation of the so-called “tank coalition”, providing Ukraine with more than 350 tanks of various types. This step was an important signal to other states that they should help Ukraine with heavy equipment. In addition to tanks, Poland has provided Ukraine with more than 240 pieces of other equipment, including infantry fighting vehicles and artillery.
Poland has also become an important supplier of aviation, providing Ukraine with 14 MiG-29 fighter jets and more than 10 helicopters. This equipment has significantly enhanced Ukraine’s ability to defend its airspace. Poland is also actively involved in training the Ukrainian military, having trained more than 25,000 soldiers. At the same time, Poland is helping to provide Ukraine with drones, anti-aircraft systems, and a significant amount of ammunition for various types of weapons.
Humanitarian support: Reception of refugees and social assistance
Poland has become the main refuge for Ukrainian refugees, hosting over a million people. This flow of refugees has become one of the largest in Europe, and Poland is making significant efforts to provide them with housing, medical care, access to education and jobs. The country actively supports refugees, providing them not only with social benefits but also with opportunities for integration into Polish society.
Financial assistance: Contribution to Ukraine’s development and stability
Poland has also provided significant financial support to Ukraine. According to the data, Poland has allocated 4.91% of its GDP to help Ukraine, which is the highest figure among EU countries. Of this amount, 0.71% was allocated to military aid, and the remaining 4.2% was spent on refugee support. Poland actively supports initiatives aimed at providing Ukraine with everything it needs to fight the war. The country was one of the first to initiate international programmes to supply ammunition and other military equipment.
Cooperation within NATO: Preparing for the future
Poland not only provides military and humanitarian assistance, but is also actively involved in training the Ukrainian army to NATO standards. One of the most important projects is the establishment of the NATO-Ukraine Analysis, Training and Exercise Centre in Bydgoszcz, which is due to start operating in January 2025. This will allow Ukraine to cooperate even more closely with NATO and improve its defence capabilities.
Poland as a strategic ally of Ukraine
Poland continues to be at the forefront of assisting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. Its support covers various aspects: from direct military assistance to humanitarian and financial support. Poland not only strengthens Ukraine’s defence capabilities, but also helps the country in the face of the largest humanitarian crisis in Europe. Thanks to Polish support, Ukraine is able to resist aggression and bring its victory closer.
